Nursing homes have emerged as a hotbed of infection. While there are some phenomenal facilities, the ease with which germs and illness can spread, as well as trouble maintaining adequate staffing and supervision levels, has led many families to search for alternatives to nursing homes for their loved ones. Whether you are looking for long term care for an adult with disabilities, temporary care during a recovery process or care for an older relative who is having memory trouble, there are programs available to help.
- Adult Foster Care
For adults who need minor care services, such as assistance with daily activities like grooming and medication reminders, foster care may be a viable alternative to a nursing home. Adult foster care Massachusetts often involves one to three adults in a home setting where they receive meals and basic personal care services. There is financial assistance available for this type of arrangement, even for certain family members who take on the responsibility.
- Holistic Care Program
As its name implies, holistic care attempts to integrate care into a larger, community-wide program. Commonly referred to as PACE, the Program for All-inclusive Care for the Elderly is a joint effort of Medicare and Medicaid that integrates care for medical, social and nutritional needs of adults, aged 55 and over, who live at home. It can help with everything from arranging meal deliveries, prescription management and transportation assistance. PACE is only available in select areas, and you must meet certain criteria to enroll.
- Assisted Living Communities
Assisted living communities are an ideal solution in cases where personal care assistance is needed, but you also want to foster social engagement within a community. If memory loss is a concern, you should look for facilities with specialized memory care units. Some assisted living communities offer private homes or townhouse-style dwellings while others more closely resemble apartment buildings. In addition to personal care, you can expect to find a variety of social activities, fitness programs and help with household chores.
- Residential Care Homes
One option that offers a compromise between the others is a group or residential care home. Low-level care, such as assistance with ADLs and social activities are available, as is limited peer interaction. However, that is provided within a small, family-oriented environment.
Nursing homes serve an important function in society. Residents can receive intensive medical care while in a safe and enriching environment. They are not the only option for adults needing assistance, however. Group homes, assisted living centers, adult foster care and the PACE program aim to keep people engages in their communities while [providing the necessary services for maintaining a high quality of life.
